The Marvel star enforces strict discipline to keep his four sons humble and grounded in Hollywood’s glare

Anthony Mackie isn’t letting Hollywood fame spoil his four sons. The Captain America: Brave New World star recently opened up about his no-nonsense approach to parenting on The Pivot podcast, where he revealed that his boys don’t get luxury sneakers, don’t engage in flashy internet culture, and are raised with strict discipline.

“I keep my boys humble,” Mackie said. “Like, my boys have never had a pair of Jordans. My boys don’t do all that internet fly s***. I could be the biggest star in the world. Do not let me catch you being stupid.”

The Marvel actor, who shares his four sons with ex-wife Sheletta Chapital, believes his approach is paying off. His eldest, now 15, has taken on the role of leader in the household, guiding his younger brothers. “My oldest gets it. He tells the other ones, ‘Yo, don’t make Dad mad.’ Once you get one that’s right, he’s going to straighten the other ones out.”

Mackie also spoke about his concerns regarding the decline of traditional masculinity in modern society. “For the past 20 years, we’ve been living through the death of the American male. They have literally killed masculinity in our homes, in our communities, for one reason or another,” he said. “But I raise my boys to be young men.”

From an early age, Mackie has instilled values of respect and responsibility in his sons. He teaches them to say thank you, open doors for women, and take care of their mother. “Every time I left for a job, I tell my 15-year-old, ‘You’re the man of the house. You make sure these doors are locked. Every night this alarm is on. You text me or call me every night before you go to bed and when you wake up.’”

Mackie’s strict yet traditional parenting style stands out in an industry often associated with excess and privilege. By setting firm boundaries and reinforcing discipline, he ensures his children remain grounded—no matter how big his Hollywood star shines.